History Of Roman Culture

The history of the Roman culture can be tagged along the entire 1200-year old history of the Roman civilization. The term ancient Roman culture, however, is commonly used to describe the ancient culture of the Roman Republic and Roman Empire, which encompassed a vast area extending from Morocco to Euphrates.

The main centers of attraction in ancient Rome, like the city of Rome, the famous Seven Hills, the Forum of Trajan, the Roman Colosseum or the Flavian Amphitheater, and the Pantheon, played significant roles on the growth and development of the ancient Roman culture. Although a large majority of the Romans lived in small apartments, called the insulae, the city also featured a large number of modest houses, royal residences on Palatine Hill, and magnificent country villas. Besides, the cities also featured several other architectures, such as taverns, brothels, baths, theaters, and gymnasiums.

Beginning in the mid of the 2nd century B.C., Greek culture became more and more dominant in almost every single feature of the private culture of the highest nobel class of Rome. Despite the invectives from the conservative moralists of that period, explaining the apparent softening effects of the Hellenized culture, Greek culture became increasingly popular and pre-eminent in every Roman household. The Greek culture influenced Rome to such an extent that by the time Augustus Caesar became the Roman Emperor, everything that happened in the country had its reflection. Slaves and all other professionals, such as chefs, doctors, secretaries, hairdressers, and decorators, belonged to Greek East. The sculptures that were used to embellish the magnificent villas and landscapes in Rome were also from Greece. The Roman cuisine was also prepared in Greek style.

However, the Italic nature of Roman culture was dominant in law and in government. Roman culture was highly influenced and inspired by the culture of ancient Greeks. This great civilization left its rich culture as a legacy that survives partially even till date.

There are no accurately documented historical accounts about the history of Roman numerals. Most of what is available as documentary proof is highly ambiguous. According to the common belief, humans began to count on fingers and therefore the counting is usually done in tens. The theory of Roman numerals is also based on a similar assumption. More..